The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced on April 30 that the state’s unemployment rate reached 5.1 percent in March, up by 0.1 percentage point from February and up by half a percentage point compared to the same month last year. The revised February unemployment rate was reported at 5.0 percent.
The number of nonfarm payroll jobs increased by 8,400 in March, bringing the total to approximately 6,145,500 jobs across Illinois. The largest job gains were seen in Private Education and Health Services, Professional and Business Services, and Government sectors. However, Trade, Transportation and Utilities; Financial Activities; and Manufacturing experienced declines.
Deputy Governor Andy Manar said: “While Illinois added jobs in March, rising unemployment and continued softness in key sectors reflect broader economic uncertainty coming out of Washington. The Trump Administration’s policies are creating real headwinds for states and working families across the country. In Illinois, we’re staying focused on fiscal discipline and long-term growth to mitigate those impacts and keep our economy moving forward.”
Director Kristin Richards of the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity said: “The March increase in payroll jobs shows continued growth in certain sectors, and underscores why DCEO remains laser-focused on our economic development initiatives that open doors for all Illinoisans. The State is committed to implementing programs that strategically build upon this momentum.”
According to the official website, the Illinois Department of Employment Security promotes economic stability by assisting unemployed individuals and providing data for policy decisions according to the official website. The department aims to foster economic growth through employment services such as job fairs and labor market analysis according to the official website. It extends its services throughout Illinois with community partnerships designed to enhance workforce participation according to the official website.
In addition to tracking employment data, IDES offers tools like Illinois JobLink—a platform connecting jobseekers with employers—and resources for federal employees affected by recent terminations or deferred resignations.
Looking ahead, IDES continues its mission as a state agency focused on workforce development through programs including unemployment insurance benefits and labor market information according to the official website.
